Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 September 2024
428. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 425 of 2 July 2024, the exact monetary amount for allowances for post-mastectomy products, by county, in view of the fact that this was not answered in the response to the question, and that there are discrepancies across counties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37377/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Health Service Executive (HSE) provide an extensive range of aids and appliances to individuals living with a wide variety of different medical conditions under the Community Funded Schemes (CFS). These support individuals to continue living within their communities and to enjoy a greater quality of life than would otherwise be the case.
The CFS also provides an allowance for cancer treatment in respect of hair loss and post mastectomy products. The range of allowance does vary across the country in products available depending on which county a person resides in. This variance makes it difficult to provide exact monetary amounts for each county. However, the following table gives some indication of the variance:
|
Product |
Current provision |
|
Prosthesis Bra |
Varies from €43 to €75 per bra. |
|
Breast Prosthesis |
Varies from €68.50 to €250. |
|
Swimwear |
Provided in some CHOs: - €80 to €85 for swimsuit. - €50 to €65 for swim prosthesis. |
|
Wigs/Hair Pieces |
Varies from €450 to €770 annually. |
The HSE have forwarded a costed proposal for the standardisation of provision at the highest level, which is under consideration as part of the estimates 2025 process.
I want to reiterate that progressing Women's Health is a priority within the Programme for Government, and a top priority for me as Minister for Health. I am proud to have overseen unprecedented levels of funding in women's health services
